How to Decide on a Floor Plan for a Basement

Decide how you will use the basement. Your use will largely determine your floor plan. For example, if the space will be an in-law suite, you will need a bathroom and possibly a kitchenette. If the space will serve as a home office, you may need a separate outside entrance for clients.

Measure the length, width, height and square footage of the basement, using a measuring tape. Draw out the floor space on graph paper and include any architectural features like windows, doors, stairs or support columns that cannot or will not be removed.

Walk around the basement and visualize the space as you intend to use it. If the space will serve as a rec room, for example, where will the wet bar go in relation to the stairs? Where will the flat-screen TV and furniture go? If the space will serve as a playroom, where will the various activity centers go? This kind of visualization will help you develop your floor plan.

Consult with a professional if, after you've visualized the remodeled space, you know that you will need to upgrade or make other changes to the electricity, plumbing or heating. Incorporate these changes in your layout.

Finalize your floor plan and go back to the basement. Make sure that what you have on paper corresponds with the actual space and what you envision. If the three don't match, revise your floor plan.